The average cost of installing a subpanel is between $400 and $1,750, depending on the amperage and number of circuits installed. Typically subpanels have 4 to 20 or more circuits and between 100 and 150 amps.
The cost to install a subpanel is $1,200 on average, but prices range from $400 to $1,750. An electrical subpanel is a service panel that passes power from your electric company to a specific area in your home. In essence, subpanels are mini main circuit panels, and installing them may improve your home’s electrical system.
| Subpanel Amperage | Installation Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 100 | $400–$1,000 |
| 125 | $500–$1,250 |
| 150 | $600–$1,750 |
One of the most common reasons a homeowner may need a new subpanel is because they live in a home that is more than 15 to 20 years old, and the house simply has more energy needs now than it did when it was built. Homes built in the 80s and 90s weren't designed to keep up with the electrical demands of modern technology (think computers, smart devices, electric vehicles, and other technological conveniences.)
Some other reasons you may need a new subpanel include the following:
Your main panel is full, and you need more space to add circuits.
You need a subpanel in another location for the sake of convenience.
You're expanding your home or doing some remodeling that requires additional electronic needs.
In many cases, a new subpanel is warranted if your old one is not functioning properly. Some warning signs that you may need a new subpanel include frequent breaker trips, heat, buzzing or humming noises coming from the panel, and visible damage.
When installing a subpanel, various cost factors will influence the final price. Below are some of the major components to consider.
Electricians usually charge by the hour, including travel and time on task. Typically, the cost to hire an electrician ranges from $50 to $100 per hour.
Moving a subpanel from one area to another costs an average of $1,000 to $3,000. Costs depend on factors such as whether the panel is indoors or outdoors, how many circuits are moving, and how many floors are in your home. Moving an electrical panel outside costs roughly $1,500 to $2,500, including necessary equipment and wiring.
Installing a subpanel requires electrical permits, and you could get fined without the proper documentation. These permits typically cost around $50 to $300.
The permit types you’ll need depend on your location and the specific project details. You should communicate with your electrician to determine whether this cost is covered in their price estimate.
It costs roughly $1,400 to install new electrical or panel wiring, depending on how much you need. You can expect to pay anywhere from $600 to $2,200 to install new wiring.
You may need to replace a fuse box if there are flickering lights, unresponsive sockets, or if your fuse box is more than 10 years old.
It costs around $200 to $2,000 to replace a fuse box, but it can cost more if you also need new wiring.
Any electrical repair can be quite dangerous, but homeowners with extensive electrical experience can take on DIY subpanel wiring and installation. However, for most homeowners, it's much safer to hire a local electrician familiar with area building codes and safety requirements. They’ll also come equipped with the proper permits and know-how to communicate with your local power supplier. Hiring a professional electrician will allow you to have peace of mind about your safety and reduce the risk of pricey repairs in the future.
Research how to hire licensed, insured electricians by looking at all available options, and then make an informed decision based on experience, reputation, and cost.
If your subpanel is more than 25 years old, you should consider purchasing a new one since your current model may not be up to the job anymore. Other reasons to upgrade your subpanel include:
You need more power than what your current system allows
You need to add new electrical systems
Installing or replacing a subpanel usually takes roughly four to eight hours, but this timeline may increase if you install multiple subpanels or a spa panel to wire a hot tub.
There are several indications of an overloaded electrical panel, such as frequent circuit breaker tripping, burn marks, or flickering or dimming lights.
If you’re observing any warning signs, turn the circuit breaker off, then shift some devices from the overloaded circuit to a different one. If there are still signs of overload after turning the circuit break back on, contact a professional electrician to help you fix the issue.
Installing a new electrical meter box
Replacing your meter base
Replacing your service entrance cable
The cost to install or upgrade an electrical meter box ranges from $100 to $650, including $50 to $250 for the unit. The meter base passes the power from your electric company to your panel. The cost to replace a meter base is roughly $50 to $250.
Service entrance cables are electrical cables with multiple wires, bringing power from electrical companies to residential buildings. The cost to replace a service entrance cable ranges roughly from $1,000 to $1,500.
